Answers
Please note: Off-the-page question answers will mostly vary too greatly, so answers are often not
provided.
UNIT 1: Shark attack sparks warning
What is being said?
1
2
a
turbid
muddy, not clear
b
congregated
c
thrashing
moving violently
d
eternity
a span of time without beginning or end
e
anglers
people who fish with a fishing rod or line
assembled, flocked together
Three of the following:
i
Greg Scott: Spokesman for Lifesaving Victoria
ii
Daniel Guest: Mr Guest’s son
iii
Bill Guest: Mr Guest brother
iv
Senior Sergeant Greg Trew: policeman
v
Ric Wilson: Shark expert
a
False
b
True
c
False
d
False
3
4
Mr Guest was snorkelling 30 metres off shore with his son at Port Kennedy. He disappeared in a swirl of
blood. A witness who saw the shark estimated it was 4 to 5 metres long. So far all police have only found
pieces of a wetsuit believed to have been his.
5
In 2005, Mr Guest told an anglers website forum he did not believe in killing sharks. He said, ‘They’ve got a
right to be there and we’ve got a right to go there and there are risks associated with everything.’
6
There is no way of knowing which shark it would be.
7
a
The unknown impact of dredging on the bay
b
Suspected food shortage in the bay
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8
Three of the following:
Ocean Grove to Cape Shanck, Phillip Island back beaches, Point Leo, Kilcunda and the southern end of
Port Phillip Bay.
What does it mean?
9
Answers will vary but four possible questions include:
i
To the spokesman for Lifesaving Victoria: How can we avoid shark attacks?
ii
To Daniel Guest: Was your father aware of the dangers of diving?
iii
To police: Can you tell us what happened?
iv
To Ric Wilson: Is there a risk of shark attacks at Victorian beaches?
10 Answers will vary
UNIT 2: Is it right to keep animals in zoos?
What is being said?
1
a
anaconda
a large snake which kills its prey by constriction
b
endangered
animals and plants which are in danger of extinction
c
conservation
saving (conserving) animals and plants from extinction
d
liberation
freedom
e
not-for profit organisation
f
habitat
the natural locality of an animal or plant
g
RSPCA
The Royal Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals
i
you can see animals close up
ii
breeding programs for endangered species
iii
helping injured or threatened animals
an organisation which does not run in order to make money
2
3
They were killed off by rats which escaped from a ship
4
It is threatened by a disease known as Devil Facial Tumour disease
5
i
they lived far shorter lives than those in the wild
ii
stress and lack of exercise were killing them
i
some of the information came from the 1960s, when zoos were different from today
ii
none of the zoos in the study were from Australia or the US
6
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7
i
the role zoos play in education
ii
the role zoos play in conservation
i
zoos are mainly interested in profit
ii
zoo breeding programs only pick high-profile animals
i
Jenny Gray says many animals would not exist if they were not born in zoos.
ii
She also claims that zoos provide positive experiences for families.
8
9
What does it mean?
10 The article does begin and end with positive statements about zoos, which could give the impression that
the writer thinks they have a role to play.
11 She sees zoos as giving families a way to open discussion on important issues. The experience of visiting
a zoo is also a bonding experience for different generations.
UNIT 3: Hatchet
What is being said?
1
a
stabiliser
a device fitted to the tail of a plane to stabilise it
b
elevator
a device used to control the plane’s longitudinal inclination
c
slam
hit violently
d
aluminium
a lightweight silver-coloured metal
e
skeleton
framework of the plane
f
hatchet
a small axe
g
experimental
test to find out what happens
h
triangular
in the shape of a triangle
i
frenzied
mad, violent, frantic
j
brace
support
2
By pulling himself along the stabiliser and the elevator.
3
Because he should have known that nothing was easy where he was.
4
Because he was so angry and frustrated.
5
It moved when Brian hit it.
6
A skin over the skeleton of the plane.
7
To see if he could cut through the aluminium covering.
8
Four times.
9
Control cables going back to the tail of the plane.
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10 He was bending a piece of aluminium away from the two braces when he dropped the hatchet.
11 The hatchet fell past Brian’s left foot and into the water.
What does it mean?
12 By losing the hatchet Brian had lost his means of making the fire, tools and weapons he needed to survive.
He depended so much on the hatchet for survival that he thought he would no longer be a real person
without it.
13 The last sentence may have been left standing alone because it is so important. The loss of the hatchet
was all Brian could think about and he could hardly believe it.
UNIT 4: Your feel fabulous guide
What is being said?
1
a
havoc
damage or chaos
b
hibernation
remaining in a state of confusion or inactivity
c
prioritise
to put things in an order
d
bitter
sour and resentful
e
mantra
a word or phrase designed to make one focus
f
complemented
made full or complete
g
retreats
withdraws
h
assertiveness
being strong about your rights and needs
i
wallow
to roll about in
2
Envy, stress and shutting down or depression
3
His name is Dr Bob Montgomery and he is the Director of Communication, Australian Psychology Society
4
They are advised to eat healthy meals combining meat, complex carbohydrates and vegetables. They are
also advised to drink herbal teas and ensure that they get plenty of vitamins, especially magnesium.
5
Wanting something that someone else has.
6
Exams and a family crisis.
7
Fish like salmon and tuna which contain Omega 3.
8
Low-fat dairy products.
9
He says it could be a warning sign of depression.
10 Any four of: ‘your best shot’, ‘sit on your arse’, ‘freaking out’, ‘I’m gonna nail this’, ‘reach for the grease’,
‘veggies’, ‘carbs’, ‘gonna’.
What does it mean?
11 They relate to our diet, exercise and the way we think.
12 They should find the subject matter interesting. The informal language should appeal to them and the
layout makes it easy to identify the main points.
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UNIT 5: Bon appetit
What is being said?
1
a
bon appetit
good appetite (French), enjoy your meal
b
offal
the intestines, heart, kidneys, liver etc. of an animal
c
mutton
the meat of a fully grown sheep
d
suet
puddings
the fat from the kidneys and loin of sheep and cattle, often used in boiled or baked
e
stock
vegetables
liquid basis for soups and other dishes, made by boiling meat, bones and
f
lights
the lungs of sheep and pigs
g
sauté
to fry quickly in a little fat
h
absorbent
able to take in or soak up
i
simmer
to cook gently just below boiling point
2
Rice paper.
3
One pound of mutton suet.
4
They need to be boiled and minced.
5
Half full.
6
The haggis should be boiled slowly for four to five hours.
7
Twelve people.
8
Lamb’s kidneys.
9
Two chicken stock cubes are required.
10
i
remove the skin from the kidneys
ii
cut the kidneys in half
iii
remove any fat and tubes
iv
soak in warm salted water for twenty minutes
v
drain and dry on absorbent paper
11 This recipe requires two tablespoons of flour.
12 Four people.
What does it mean?
13 The stomach bag needs to be pricked all over before cooking to prevent bursting. If the bag bursts, this
step may have been omitted or not done carefully enough.
14 The kidneys need to be simmered gently rather than boiled or they will become tough.
15 It will take approximately 40 minutes to prepare and cook the kidneys.
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16 Kidneys Bordelaise would be the healthier alternative. It uses much less fat and also contains a little more
in the way of vegetables and herbs.
17 In days gone by people needed to make economical use of all parts of an animal. Most people had much
less money than families have today and offal was very cheap. It was also considered to be nutritious.
UNIT 6: Big Brothers, Big Sisters
What is being said?
1
a
mentor
a trusted advisor, a counsellor
b
vulnerable
able to be hurt, harmed or attacked
c
volunteer
a person who offers to help out or work for an organisation free of charge
d
international
of or belonging to more than one country
e
enhance
make something more attractive, increase its value
f
vibrant
lively
g
scenarios
possible scenes or situations
2
It is a program which provides friendship and fun by matching vulnerable young people (aged 7–17), with a
volunteer adult who can be both a role model and a supportive friend.
3
It hopes to provide them with friendship and develop positive self-esteem, confidence and life direction.
4
One to four hours three or four times a month.
5
Any two of: a picnic at a park, cooking, playing simple sport
6
She had difficulties being accepted by her peers. She was teased
7
She knew of someone who was a ‘little sister ‘and then she used the internet to find out more information.
8
Her mother came across the organisation and thought it could benefit her
9
You need to have interviews, a police check, complete online training modules and an exam at the end of
these. You then need to do group training including role plays and advice on expectations, guidelines and
boundaries.
What does it mean?
10 They both experienced teasing at school and share a love of animals and the outdoors.
11 It suggests that she was different and ‘didn’t fit the mould’.
12 Answers will vary.
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UNIT 7: School of hard frocks
What is being said?
1
a
exclusive
shutting out others
b
generic
identified by the name of a product, not a brand name
c
logo
a brand symbol
d
endeavour
try
e
hand-me-down
clothes which have been worn by someone previously
2
Up to six times more than generic uniforms.
3
The difference is $50.
4
Extras with logos can cost $1000 for some high schools and $500 for some primary schools.
5
Elaine Crowie is spokesperson for Parents Victoria.
6
i
One student was told she could not attend the formal because she did not have the right shoes.
ii
A parent had to fight the school to allow her child to have a different school bag.
7
Some schools have second-hand uniform shops and allow parents to buy generic items as long as they fit
the school uniform code.
8
David Schmidt is manager of the State Schools Relief Fund.
9
The SSRF has spent $1.25 million in the last 2 years.
10 Yes, a 10 % jump in the demand for help.
11 The State Government helps parents through the $95 million School Start Bonus.
What does it mean?
12 The headline implies that the cost of school uniforms is a tough experience for parents.
13 Answers will vary
UNIT 8: Danny the Champion of the World
What is being said?
1
a
poaching
catching game or fish illegally
b
pheasants
long-tailed game birds
c
aghast
amazed, horrified
d
splendiferous
splendid, magnificent
e
literally
with no exaggeration, true to fact
f
vermin
any harmful or objectionable small animals
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g
stoats
mammals of the weasel family of Europe
h
weasels
small flesh-eating mammals of Europe
i
pot
take a shot at something
2
He felt shocked.
3
In Hazell’s Wood.
4
He was taught by his own father, Danny’s grandfather.
5
Danny’s father said men poached because they enjoyed it and because they needed food for their families.
6
Times were bad for a lot of people in England. There was little work around and many people were
starving.
7
He loved the excitement of poaching.
8
He said they had guns to shoot the vermin who go after the pheasants, but also so they could take a pot at
the poachers.
What does it mean?
9
He was shocked because he couldn’t believe that his beloved father could be a thief.
10 His dad claimed that poachers only stole from rich people in order to feed their starving families.
11 Danny pointed out that no one was starving in their family.
12 You can tell how exciting he found poaching by the language he used, saying it was a ‘fabulous and
exciting sport’ which ‘gets into your blood’, and also by his behaviour when he talked about it. For example,
he leapt off the bunk and waved his mug in the air and tried to describe it vividly for Danny.
13 Danny was frightened that his father might get hurt.
14 They go at night because the keepers won’t be able to see them as easily and also because the birds will
be roosting (asleep in the trees) and will be easier to catch.
15 They seem to be close. Danny loves his father and worries about him. Danny’s father trusts and confides in
his son. They talk to one another.
UNIT 9: Medieval clothing in Japan
What is being said?
1
a
medieval
in the style of the Middle Ages (approximately AD 1000 to AD 1453)
b
brocade
rich fabric with a raised pattern created using gold or silver thread
c
chrysanthemum
a large colourful autumn flower, native to China
d
transparent
allowing light to pass through, so that objects on the other side may be seen
e
samurai
member of the Japanese military class in medieval times
f
skewers
long pins of wood or metal
g
hemp
a plant grown in Asia, made into a coarse cloth worn by the poor
h
ramie
a fabric made from the stems of a nettle plant, which is also called ramie
2
The kimono.
3
Very simply, the word kimono means ‘thing to wear’.
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4
China.
5
The Nara period came first.
6
Ox-leather covered in brocade.
7
A silk kanmuri cap with a streamer on top.
8
A gold chrysanthemum-shaped flower.
9
Fine silk, either patterned or plain.
10 Kimonos or short belted tunics with either trousers or skirts. They were made from a rough woven fabric.
11 In the late twelfth century.
12 The warriors were called samurai.
13 Samurai armour was made of leather strengthened with iron plates covered in lacquer and joined with silk
cords.
14 Bows and arrows, steel swords and skewers.
What does it mean?
15 Japanese women probably did this to display their wealth. Poor people couldn’t have afforded anything like
this number of kimonos made from such rich fabrics.
16 The Emperor was able to wear slippers covered in brocade because he didn’t have to work. He wouldn’t
have had to walk outside either. Emperors were carried on a litter (a seat or couch between poles) by their
servants.
17 They probably wore this to make them look even fiercer and frighten their enemies. It probably made them
feel braver, too.
UNIT 10: Power is money: cost efficiency is in your hands
What is being said?
1
a
guzzling
to consume greedily
b
hard-pressed
under economic pressure
c
perishable
things that will spoil or decay
d
filament
the electricity conductor in a light bulb
e
wattage
the watts (units of power) required to run an electrical device
2
About $100.
3
From $52 to $65 per month.
4
e)
5
A gas hot water service.
Both a) and c)
6
a
insulate the ceiling
b
run the air conditioner between 22 and 26 degrees.
c
close windows and blinds on hot days
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7
8
a
False
b
True
c
False
c) 75%
What does it mean?
9
It is that saving energy is not only good for the environment but also saves us money.
10 The normal expression is: ‘Money is power’. Changing it to ‘Power is money’ reminds us that our use of
power costs us money.
11
a
Install ceiling insulation.
b
Turn off appliances at the switch.
UNIT 11: Surviving Sydney Cove
What is being said?
1
a
Good Friday
the Friday before Easter
b
Royal Marine
a sailor in the British Navy
c
peering
looking closely at something
d
journal
diary
e
pines
longs for something
2
Saturday 3rd April 1790
3
To read the Lord’s Prayer.
4
That she can read and write.
5
She and Sarah might be separated.
6
The writer was frightened because the words made her think of murderers and thieves.
7
Her broom.
8
Their garden.
9
A journal.
10 Winston Russell.
11 He wanted some vegetables for his sick sister, Emily.
12 She liked the touch of the paper and the smell of the leathery cover.
13 She had learnt to strike a hard bargain because she had survived a harsh life as a convict.
14 The exchange of two onions for the journal.
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What does it mean?
15 He was so desperate that he would give anything for the cabbages in order to get some vegetables for his
sick sister.
16 Because she had been longing to write a journal but had not been able to obtain any paper to write on.
17 In the new colony of Sydney Cove food was in short supply. Therefore, anyone who had access to food
could control others who wanted it.
UNIT 12: Animal magnetism
What is being said?
1
a
cheetah
a very speedy member of the cat family from south-western Asia
b
majestic
stately, grand
c
regal
impressive, royal
d
carnivore
a flesh-eating animal
e
bonded
individuals united with one another
f
hygienic
clean, sanitary
g
out of sorts
feeling a little unwell
h
precautions
things done to prevent future trouble or danger
i
to have had a good innings
to have had a long life
2
Tigers, leopards, cheetahs and lions.
3
Because they are majestic and regal with lots of attitude and personality.
4
Three years.
5
Because they are classified as carnivores, just like the big cats.
6
6.40 am.
7
Chicken, beef, kangaroo and horse.
8
Twice a day.
9
3.00 pm.
10 She says there is no way to stay dry when it is cold and raining.
11 A white tiger.
12
i
She is outside in the fresh air
ii
She is working with animals
iii
She learns something every day
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What does it mean?
13 One keeper was responsible for each cub, and they looked after them for a long time (from four weeks to
five months old). They bottle-fed them every four hours. They were like mothers and their babies.
14 The cats would be at their most ferocious at feeding time and would probably see the keepers as rivals for
their food.
15 Because she is working with animals that are seen as very dangerous.
16 Chester ‘had a good innings’ because, although it was sad when he died, he had a long life for a tiger.
17 Justine seems to be a hard worker who doesn’t mind getting dirty and loves animals.
This extract shows she has lots of physical and dirty work to do. She loves little Dot and was very sad
when Chester died.
UNIT 13: Recruits’ reality check
What is being said?
1
a
recruit
new member of a group
b
mandatory
obligatory, compulsory
c
induction
introduction or initiation
d
delisted
cut from the list of official players
e
vilification
to defame, speak badly of
f
to stand in good stead
i
The careers of over 40% of them will be over before they play 10 senior matches
ii
130 players were delisted at the end of last season
iii
3 out of 4 players will play no more than 10 AFL games
to be useful to, to have a good reputation
2
3
Former footballer, Mark Porter.
4
Players who only play up to ten games.
5
No, it was mandatory.
6
Australian Football League Players’ Association.
7
Drug policy, alcohol consumption, the respect and responsibility policy, racial vilification, gambling and
sexual health.
8
To paint a picture of the realities of the game.
9
Ayce Cordy finds the ‘spoon-feeding’ frustrating at times.
10 He says it is important for the young footballers to know how to behave in order to keep up the good name
of the AFL.
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What does it mean?
11 The headline suggests that the recruits may have had an unrealistic idea of the life of an AFL player, The
induction camp tries to help them face the reality of a player’s life.
12 Answers will vary
UNIT 14: The Stone
What is being said?
1
a
jade
jewellery
a highly valued ornamental stone, often green in colour and used for carvings or
b
cautiously
carefully
c
transparent
easily seen through, allowing light to pass through
d
heron
long-legged, long-necked, long-billed wading bird
e
hewn
cut, chopped
f
rabbiter
rabbit trapper
2
In the river bush.
3
A flood.
4
He found a large piece of pure jade.
5
It was thin, oval, transparent and almost olive green in colour.
6
A man-made staircase leading up to the terrace and some footprints.
7
A tin shack.
8
Any two of: bleached bones, rusting iron, an old-fashioned bath full of greenish water and a large sandylooking block of stone.
What does it mean?
9
The river became narrower and darker with higher banks.
10 Because heavy rain in the back country caused it to flood very quickly and someone could become
trapped.
11 We learn that his father knows a lot about the bush. He knows where the best jade can be found and which
sections of the river are most likely to flood quickly.
12 He felt rather frightened. ‘His heart fluttered with airy feelings’ and ‘he was ready to fly at the crack of a
twig’.
13 Menacing, oppressive and frightening would be the three best adjectives to describe the atmosphere of this
passage.
Successful Comprehension
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UNIT 15: Hey misster, one false move and you’re hisstory
What is being said?
1
a
hedgerow
hedge around a field etc
b
venom
a poisonous fluid produced by snakes, scorpions etc
c
predecessor
an earlier person or thing
d
antivenom
a serum containing antibodies which will counteract poison or venom
e
tourniquet
a strip of material, pulled tightly around an arm or a leg
f
pharmacology
the study of medicinal drugs
2
The Commonwealth Serum Laboratories.
3
They studied the poisons of native creatures and produced antivenom.
4
A drought can force them out of hiding and into residential areas to look for water.
5
Because movement spreads the venom around the body.
6
i
Keep them still.
ii
Apply a pressure bandage to the area of the bite.
What does it mean?
7
The Eastern brown snake. It might only have the second most powerful venom but it is the most common
snake in Australia.
8
It slows down the spread of venom through the body via the bloodstream.
9
In Australia we have organisations such as the Australian Antivenom Research Unit developing and
producing antivenom. We also have public education campaigns directed at alerting people about what do
if they are bitten. Papua New Guinea is a much poorer country and lacks these resources.
10 The expression ‘You’re history’ means ‘you’re gone’. The double ‘s’ in ‘misster’ and ‘hisstory’ echoes the
sound of a snake.
UNIT 16: Canteen food
What is being said?
1
a
policy
aims or plan of action of a person or group
b
guidelines
suggestions or rules which guide
c
nutritious
nourishing
d
carbonated beverages
e
wholegrain
wholemeal, prepared with the complete grain kernel
f
wholesome
good for health
fizzy drinks
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g
controversy
dispute about some matter of opinion
h
editorial
an article in a newspaper, usually written by the editor, expressing the paper’s
opinion on a particular issue
i
prohibitions
bans
2
Recent surveys about overweight teenagers and the amount of rubbish in the school yard.
3
Lollies, high-fat foods and carbonated beverages.
4
He believes the students will leave the school grounds to buy the things they can no longer buy from him.
5
Not getting enough exercise and eating too much fast food.
6
Children need to be educated to make healthy choices and encouraged to enjoy games.
What does it mean?
7
Mr Appleby says the restrictions on what they can sell mean they won’t be able to make enough money.
8
He is pointing out that the old system didn’t work well and that it was very difficult for the school to get
parent helpers.
9
The editor agrees that there is a problem but doesn’t believe that banning things works. Therefore the
paper would not support the new canteen policy.
10 The editor says that obese children grow into overweight adults who suffer weight-related health problems
which cost the taxpayer money.
11 This means that what we can’t have always seems more attractive to us. The fact that things are forbidden
makes some people want them more.
UNIT 17: History on display
What does it mean?
1
a
exhibit
something which is placed on show for people to look at
b
musty
smelling or tasting mouldy or stale
c
dignity
a calm and serious manner
d
indigenous
originating in a particular country
e
extinct
not existing any more
f
habitat
where an animal or plant lives naturally
g
artefacts
objects made by humans
h
interactive
a two-way exchange
2
The old type of museum is described as a place of dark rooms and old glass cases where you can’t touch
anything.
3
There are exciting ways you can explore Australian history and find out things for yourself. At the new
museum actors perform dances and plays, there is a living rainforest full of live birds, snakes and insects,
and there are objects you can pick up and touch.
4
Koori people are defined as Aboriginal people from south-eastern Australia.
5
Koori Voices tells the story of the struggle of Koori people to keep their dignity and way of life since
European settlement.
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6
Belonging to Country shows why the land is important to Aborigines.
7
In the Australia Gallery you can:
i
see a model of gold diggings
ii
read about how Australia celebrated its 100th birthday in 1888
iii
look at a horse-drawn carriage
iv
look at an early electric van
8
About different plants and animals, some of which are extinct.
9
The Mallee and Alpine regions.
10 You can find answers to your own questions about the artefacts in the museum by using computers.
What does it mean?
11 The museum has been changed to be more interesting, to encourage more people to go and to be more
up-to-date. (Other responses are possible.)
12 A ‘touch cart’ allows visitors to the museum to become more involved with the exhibits, because they can
actually feel them, which was not allowed in the old museum.
UNIT 18: Boy
What is being said?
1
a
prosperous
rich, successful
b
majestic
impressive, dignified
c
excruciating
extremely painful
d
orthopaedic
relating to injuries to bones and muscles
e
ingenious
cleverly made
2
Sarpsborg, a small town near Oslo in Norway.
3
1820.
4
He would have been 164 years old.
5
He was a prosperous merchant who traded in everything from cheese to chicken-wire.
6
Wellington had defeated Napoleon at.
7
He was up on the roof fixing some loose tiles when he slipped and fell.
8
Because he was drunk.
9
The doctor called two men off the street to hold Harald by the waist while he grabbed him by the wrist and
pulled.
10 The pulling had done so much damage that they ended up amputating Harald’s left arm at the elbow.
11 He could tie a shoelace as quickly as anyone else, cut up his food and feed himself.
12 Cut the top off a boiled egg.
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What does it mean?
13 Dahl is explaining why his father and grandfather seem so old. They had children late in life.
14 Surgery is much better now and Harald would probably have had an operation to repair his fracture.
(Similar responses possible)
15 Harald shows courage, because he taught himself to do almost anything with his one arm, and he shows
ingenuity, by inventing his own knife and fork all in one.
UNIT 19: Weather
What is being said?
1
a
tending
moving towards
b
moderate
medium strength, avoiding extremes
c
isolated
placed apart or alone
d
variable
changing, not constant
e
knots
units of speed, equivalent to one nautical mile per hour
2
Ballarat.
3
Mildura.
4
22 degrees Celsius.
5
Between 12.00 pm and 4.00 pm.
6
Approximately 6.00 am.
7
The Tasman Sea.
8
15 knots.
9
They will increase to around one metre high.
10 www.epa.vic.gov.au
11 14.
12 ‘Very poor’.
13 ‘Excellent’.
14 Mainly fine, warm at first and then becoming cooler.
What does it mean?
15 No, because it will be fine and warm (26 degrees Celsius).
16 Yes, because some showers are forecast.
17 Saturday, because the weather at the weekend will be warm at first and then become cooler.
18 Both have the same rating for snow conditions (good) but Falls Creek has more lifts open and might
therefore be a better choice.
19 The air quality will be worst on Wednesday in the Eastern region.
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UNIT 20: The Silver Fox
What is being said?
1
a
shrub
bush
b
foliage
the leaves of a plant
c
alert
watchful
d
stealthy
quiet and secretive, trying not to be noticed
e
sleek
smooth and shiny
f
russet
reddish-brown colour
g
foreboding
a feeling that trouble is coming
2
A slight movement among the overgrown shrubs.
3
Emily thought the movement in the shrubs was caused by an animal, but no ordinary animal.
4
If the strange creature would appear again.
5
Because she thought she must have imagined seeing something.
6
She saw something moving stealthily through the bushes.
7
The sky was getting lighter.
8
She realised the animal was a fox.
9
Russet.
10 Silver.
11 A sense of foreboding.
What does it mean?
12 Emily believes the fox is some sort of warning that something dreadful is going to happen.
13 She only had a brief glimpse, but the way it moved and looked made her think it was no ordinary animal.
14 She felt sleepy and thought she might have been dreaming.
What do I think about it?
15 Answers will vary
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UNIT 21: Hawaiian monk seal
What is being said?
1
a
monk
a member of a religious community of men
b
cowl
a monk’s hood
c
solitary
spending time alone
d
conservation
preservation of natural resources
e
translocation
moving from one place to another
f
decade
a period of ten years
g
disruption
disturbance, breaking up
h
predators
animals which hunt or prey upon others
2
Because the fold of skin at its neck is like a monk’s cowl and it has solitary habits, like a monk.
3
Only in Hawaii.
4
The Hawaiian name for the monk seal.
5
‘The dog that runs in the sea’.
6
For 15 million years.
7
In the past ten years the Hawaiian monk seal population has risen by about 15% to approximately 1300
seals.
8
By moving some of the seals to improve the male–female ratio and thus encourage breeding.
9
Primarily in the Northwestern Hawaiian Islands.
10 On the beaches on the main islands.
11 Between 150 and 175.
12 Because of shark attacks and other predators.
13 Reef fish, eels, octopus and lobster.
14 The Caribbean monk seal is extinct and the Mediterranean monk seal numbers only in the hundreds.
What does it mean?
15 The resemblance of the monk seal to a dog might have caused the Hawaiians to call it ‘the dog that runs in
the sea’.
16 The seals might be reluctant to breed if they are disturbed by human activity. (Other responses possible)
17 The Hawaiian monk seal appears to be the only monk seal with any chance of survival.
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UNIT 22: The conquistadors
What is being said?
1
a
conquistadors
Spanish conquerors of Mexico and Peru in the 16th century
b
colony
an area of land that the people of another country settle in and control
c
Aztec
Spanish invasion
a member of an Indian people dominant in central Mexico at the time of the
d
allies
close friends or political supporters
e
conquer
overcome by force, win a war
f
Catholic
relating to a Christian denomination headed by the Pope
g
zeal
enthusiasm
h
convert
cause a person to change his or her beliefs
i
heathen
a person who does not acknowledge a god
j
domains
estates, lands held in possession
k
ruthlessness
lack of pity or mercy
2
Hernando Cortez.
3
Spain.
4
He heard that there was gold there.
5
The Aztec civilisation.
6
They believed Cortez was their god Quetzalcoatl.
7
Montezuma.
8
450 of his own men and 4000 of the Indian allies.
9
Cortez stormed back into Tenochtitlan to destroy the city and the Aztec civilisation with it.
10 The Incas.
11 Peru.
12 Because he had heard of the gold and silver to be found in the land of Peru.
What does it mean?
13 They thought he was Quetzalcoatl because he arrived in Mexico at a time when they believed the god was
coming. The fact that Cortez and his men were white-skinned, rode horses and fired cannons, none of
which they had ever seen before, persuaded them that he was their returning god.
14 Ancient civilisations all over South America were destroyed.
15 It’s hard to say. They believed they were helping to spread Christianity and to gain colonies for Spain.
16 The good (which came at great cost) was the way they increased the world’s knowledge. They explored,
mapped and built cities in their colonies and added to knowledge of geography and science.
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UNIT 23: Far over the misty mountains
What is being said?
1
a
dungeon
an underground cell
b
cavern
a large cave
c
ere
before
d
yore
long ago
e
fells
wild hilly country, especially in the north of England
f
hoard
store of treasure
g
wrought
shaped by beating with a hammer
h
hilt
handle of a sword
i
goblets
drinking glasses with stems
j
delves
searches deeply
k
ire
anger
2
Lines one, two and four rhyme in each stanza.
3
To seek the ‘pale enchanted gold’.
4
The ‘pale enchanted gold’ consists of golden objects made with spells (enchanted) by the dwarves in the
olden days.
5
i
The handle of a sword encrusted with gems
ii
Silver necklaces hung with flowering stars
iii
Dragon-fire in twisted wire
iv
Harps of gold
6
In deep dungeons and caverns far over the misty mountains.
7
For ancient king and elvish lord.
8
Goblets and harps of gold.
9
Because they lived in deep dungeons unknown to men and elves.
10 The bells were ringing as a fire alarm, which frightened the men.
11 The dragon knocked down the towers and houses of the men and burnt the mountains.
12 The dragon stole the dwarves’ treasure.
What does it mean?
13 Each stanza gives more information about the gold. At first it is ‘pale enchanted gold’, then it is ‘long
forgotten’, and finally we learn that ‘he’ (the dragon) has stolen it.
14 Answers will vary.
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UNIT 24: Australia’s introduced plants and animals
What is being said?
1
a
evolved
developed gradually and naturally
b
native
originating naturally in a particular country or region
c
predator
an animal or bird that hunts or preys upon others
d
larvae
insects in the first stage of their life, usually grubs or caterpillars
e
introduced weeds
vegetation
plants which are not native to an area and have taken over from the natural
f
thrive
grow strongly, prosper
g
exotic plants
plants from another part of the world
h
niche
a suitable and available space
i
ecosystem
which they live
a community of organisms interacting with one another, plus the environment in
2
Why have introduced species been able to take over from native species in Australia?
3
Because the insects that feed on them in their native country are not found in Australia.
4
The cactoblastis moth was released in Australia in 1925 and its larvae burrowed through the plants so that
they collapsed and died.
5
Introduced weeds are likely to be found where the ground has been disturbed and the natural conditions
have been changed. European plants are quick to invade disturbed areas because they have evolved to
cope with disturbance.
6
Because the conditions suit them. There is plenty of grass and they can dig their burrows more easily than
in a forested area.
7
i
Exotic plants grow quickly.
ii
They produce millions of seeds.
iii
They may have spiny stems and poisonous leaves.
8
The cane toad can breed quickly, producing millions of eggs.
9
If exotic species find a niche in the ecosystem they can reproduce and thrive without fear of natural
predators or competitors.
10 The water buffalo, which has done well in the far north of Australia. There are no large native grazing
animals in Australia’s far north, so water buffaloes were able to move in and thrive without disturbance.
What does it mean?
11 One purpose of this piece might be to make people aware of how these introduced plants and animals can
cause problems in Australia. Another reason for writing this piece might be to try to prevent new problems
by alerting people to the dangers of bringing in exotic species.
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UNIT 25: Scam
What is being said?
1
a
private eye
a private detective
b
draught-stopper
entering the room
a long fabric roll which is placed at the bottom of a door to prevent cold air from
2
Justine.
3
Because her best friend Brett had just moved away to Sydney.
4
She tried to ring Brett when her uncle was working.
5
Sam Wedgwood.
6
He writes crime novels for a living.
7
It exploded.
8
He said that secret agents blew up his kitchen because he told the truth about them in his TV program.
9
‘Men in Suits’.
10 She found her uncle’s study door shut so she decided to ring Brett in Sydney. She picked up the phone
and heard her uncle speaking to another man.
11 He plans to write a true crime book about a Wombat Valley farmer who disappeared the year before.
12 He didn’t hear the explosion because when he works he wears earplugs, shuts the door and window, and
even puts a draught-stopper along the bottom of the door.
What does it mean?
13 Phil Macy thinks it would make him sound like someone exciting rather than just someone who is a bit
forgetful and didn’t turn off the gas.
14 Justine couldn’t hang up because she was intrigued by the other man’s voice and its threatening tone. She
wanted to find out what he was after.
15 Justine seems like a loyal friend. The fact that she keeps in touch with Brett shows this. She is probably a
bit sneaky, too, because she rings Brett behind her uncle’s back and listens in to a phone conversation.
16 Her uncle seems to be very kind. He is obviously looking after Justine, who is living with him, and he gives
her a half-birthday present to cheer her up after Brett leaves for Sydney. He also needs total peace and
quiet when he works, which is demonstrated by the earplugs and other precautions he takes.
UNIT 26: Going down like lead
What is being said?
1
a
frenetic
frantic
b
hypnotic
unblinking, as though trying to hypnotise
c
disdain
to regard as unworthy of notice, to scorn
d
forlornly
unhappily
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e
livewire
an energetic person (or dog)
f
recurrent
happening repeatedly
g
lethargy
fatigue, tiredness
h
deteriorated
became worse
i
abdominal
around the stomach area
j
parameters
measurable qualities
k
insidious
harmful and barely noticeable
l
laborious
taking time and effort
2
Little Dipper was normally full of energy, a livewire whose tail never stopped wagging.
3
Recurrent diarrhoea and lethargy.
4
They thought he might be going blind.
5
His condition had deteriorated and he was vomiting, he wouldn’t eat and he was in abdominal discomfort.
6
The vet needed more information from two sources: some routine blood tests and a more detailed history
of the events leading up to Dipper’s visit to the vet.
7
The blood tests were generally normal but showed a few inconsistencies in the blood cells.
8
Dipper’s family was renovating a miner’s cottage.
9
Other poisons act much more quickly, while lead poisoning is slow and insidious.
10 Dipper was put in hospital at the vet’s where the treatment is fairly simple but laborious. At home, all the
building materials were put out of Dipper’s reach.
What does it mean?
11 Because they like the taste and will lick or even swallow the object in question.
12 Because the symptoms were an unusual mixture and were not what you would expect from a previously fit
young dog.
13 Because the symptoms had persisted for over a month. If Dipper had eaten something poisonous he
should either have recovered or died in that time.
14 The joke is that lead is heavy so it sinks, and Dipper’s lead poisoning has caused his health to sink too.
UNIT 27: First the cattle, now for the brumbies
What is being said?
1
a
heritage
part of the nation’s history, worthy of preservation
b
inseparable
cannot be separated
c
ecological impact
affecting the interaction of plants and animals in an area
d
scant
very little
e
ecologist
someone who studies the interrelations of organisms to one another and to their
physical surroundings
f
erosion-prone
an area where the topsoil is likely to be worn away
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g
integral
a necessary part of something (needed to make it whole)
h
conundrum
a hard or puzzling question, a riddle
i
anecdotal evidence
evidence by word of mouth, someone telling their own story
2
Because they are damaging the alpine environment.
3
Wild horses, deer and goats.
4
They have been concentrating on cattle up to now, and cattle grazing has now been banned.
5
i
bare ground where they congregate
ii
fouling waterways
iii
damaging bogs and moss beds
iv
creating trails in erosion-prone country
6
Sambar deer are shy and solitary and consequently they would be difficult to find.
7
People are seen as the greatest long-term threat.
8
People drive through locked gates, leaving the way open for more feral animals to enter the park. People
also make their own tracks with their cars, causing more erosion and destroying the delicate alpine flora.
What does it mean?
9
The article is making the point that there are other feral animals to remove from the Alpine National Park,
even though cattle grazing has been banned.
UNIT 28: The Fat Man
What is being said?
1
a
Adam’s ale
water
b
kumara
sweet potato
c
trifle
a dessert made with sponge cake covered with custard, cream, jelly and fruit
d
kale
a type of cabbage
e
sago
the soft inner portion of the trunk of a palm, used to make pudding
f
fowls
hens
g
scullery
a room where dishes are kept and washed
h
dripping
fat that comes from meat when it is cooked
i
blancmange
a custard-like dessert made with milk and cornflour
j
a dry town
a town where alcohol is not sold
2
She was making a joke about his constant hunger, as if the food he ate just fell out of a hole in his stomach
and he would not be so hungry if she could sew up the hole.
3
‘Chew your food thirty-two times otherwise your stomach won’t digest it’ and ‘Hard food for hard times’.
4
Colin’s mother’s sayings almost drove him mad, because she kept repeating them so often.
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5
Colin wanted cake, biscuits, fresh white bread and strawberry jam – the kind of food that his mother could
not afford to buy.
6
Colin’s mother gave him mince stew, curly kale, bread pudding, sago, a crust with some dripping on it and
water.
7
When Colin’s father had a job the family had roasts for dinner, with date roll or custard trifle for dessert.
8
Colin hated sago pudding more than any other.
9
Skinny, hungry and greedy.
10 The story begins on the day Colin’s mother gives him bread and dripping and sends him outside.
11 At Grandma’s place.
12 Every two or three weeks.
What does it mean?
13 Life was hard for the Potter family. Colin’s father did not have a job and they could not afford enough good
food for a growing boy. They used old peanut butter jars for glasses and had only water to drink.
14 Because there was a depression on and Colin’s father could not find a job.
15 Answers will vary.
UNIT 29: Café Minimale
What is being said?
1
a
entrée
dish served before the main course
b
aromatic
spicy, fragrant
c
coriander
aromatic plant with leaves and seeds used for flavouring
d
simmered
gently boiled
e
broth
thin soup of meat or fish stock
f
samosas
fried triangular pastry containing spiced vegetables or meat
g
piquant
agreeably sharp or appetising
h
ultimate
the very best
i
succulent
juicy
j
wholesome
promoting good health
k
vibrant
bright and striking
l
fragrant
sweet smelling
m
clotted
very thick
n
trio
group of three
o
pistachio
edible pale green nut
p
tangerine
small citrus fruit like an orange
q
palate
sense of taste
r
relish
enjoy greatly
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2
Coriander and cumin.
3
Crusty French bread.
4
False.
5
True.
6
A bed of mashed potato.
7
Ultimate, succulent, wholesome, vibrant.
8
Cinnamon ice-cream.
9
Three different flavoured ice-creams are served.
What does it mean?
10 Some possibilities: use of many adjectives, detailed and colourful descriptions, exotic ingredients and
combinations.
11 Spiced sweet potato soup with bread.
Chicken dumplings in chilli broth.
Samosas with dipping sauce.
Tuna on mashed potato with capsicum chutney.
Hamburger with grilled cheese and tomato salsa.
Sticky date pudding with cream and ice-cream.
Three different flavoured ice-creams.
12 This luscious chocolate pudding will delight all chocolate lovers. It is accompanied by rich vanilla ice-cream
and clotted cream.
UNIT 30: Hooning future foretold
What is being said?
1
2
a
hooning
showing off by driving fast and dangerously
b
foretold
predicted
c
landmark study
a study which marks a new direction
d
hyperactivity
abnormally active (hyper means over or beyond)
e
antisocial
not friendly or sociable (against society)
f
interaction
communication with others
g
initial
first
h
guarantee
a promise or assurance
i
ground-breaking project
j
RACV
Royal Automobile Club of Victoria
k
intervention
interference
an original project (breaking new ground)
It means that a study has shown that the driving behaviour of adults can be predicted by the behaviour of
young children.
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3
Aggression, hyperactivity, attention problems, antisocial activities and difficulty with relationships.
4
To examine links between risky driving and childhood characteristics.
5
27%
6
The 18 – 25 year old drivers hold 14% of Victorian licences.
7
She is a researcher for the Institute of Family Studies.
8
From the ages of 5 to 8.
9
They can be helped in their interactions with others and controlling their initial reactions.
10
i
43% had crashed while driving
ii
Almost a third had been picked up speeding
iii
Nearly two-thirds drove when very tired
11 Anne Harris is the chief behavioural scientist for the RACV.
12 She suggests broader early intervention work with young people, before they are 15 years old.
What does it mean?
13 RACV, the Australian Institute of Family Studies and the Transport Accident Commission. These groups
are all experts in their respective areas.
14 A driver need to focus completely on driving safely. A driver who cannot concentrate could easily cause an
accident.
15 The Institute could be interested in connecting dangerous driving to family behaviour and interactions. The
Institute may want to try to intervene in such families. (Other responses are possible.)
16 She does not want young children to be labelled as dangerous drivers before they even drive a car. It could
affect their self-esteem.
UNIT 31: Only the traffic is a cross to bear
What is being said?
1
a
cross to bear
a burden
b
leisurely
not hurrying
c
diverge
change direction
d
old-world charm
the beauty of times gone by
e
French colonial heritage
f
embalmed
preserved a dead body with chemicals
g
mausoleum
a stately and magnificent tomb
h
lotus
a flower, similar to a water lily
i
brassy
harsh, loud and bold
j
pagodas
temples
k
symbolise
stand for or represent something
buildings and culture remaining from when Vietnam was a French colony
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2
Bicycles and motorbikes.
3
The advice is to step off the footpath slowly but confidently, cross the road at a leisurely pace and do not
stop.
4
Hanoi is described as the capital and cultural centre of Vietnam, a stylish and gracious city.
5
It surprises visitors to find that the French colonial heritage has survived the war.
6
A trip to the mausoleum to see the embalmed body of Ho Chi Minh.
7
It is a thousand kilometres south of Hanoi.
8
Saigon.
9
Schoolgirls in traditional long white tunics chatting on mobile phones, and modern shopping centres near
ancient pagodas.
10 Tiny rose apples, lotus seeds, camomile, orange fruit for dyeing rice and century-old eggs.
11 Notre Dame Cathedral.
12 Tanks crashed through the gates, symbolising the end of the Vietnam War.
What does it mean?
13 The traffic is the only problem in Hanoi because everything else is wonderful for the tourist.
14 Because the streets are narrow and there are many wonderful shop-houses to see.
15 Hanoi sounds more gracious and elegant, but slower, whereas Ho Chi Minh City is more colourful, lively
and modern.
UNIT 32: Young doctors
What is being said?
1
a
physiology
the study of the body and its parts and how they function
b
psychology
the study of the mind and how it works
c
placement
to be employed in a particular position
d
leg work
running errands, doing basic tasks
e
internship
a year of supervised practice undertaken by all new graduates
f
haematology
the study of the nature, function and diseases of the blood
2
Physiology and psychology.
3
Four years.
4
The United Kingdom and India.
5
Because her parents were nurses, she wanted to work in science and she wanted to work with people.
6
Because she loved them and because they were required for her career choice.
7
Because people get sick twenty-four hours a day.
8
Because she is the junior doctor—the senior doctor makes the important decisions and tells Helen what
she must do.
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9
Helen enjoys working with people and developing good relationships with people who have serious
problems.
10 The paperwork.
11 Not to listen your maths teacher when he says you’ll never make it!
What does it mean?
12 A doctor would be required to keep detailed and accurate records of each patient’s condition and treatment
in order to ensure that they are being treated correctly. (Other responses are possible.)
13 Helen suggests that her maths teacher was not very encouraging and she gets satisfaction from having
proved him wrong.
UNIT 33: Old man’s many moods
What is being said?
1
a
unpredictable
impossible to predict, changeable
b
treacherous
extremely dangerous, unable to be trusted
c
purpose-built
built for a specific purpose or reason
d
aqueduct
a constructed channel for carrying water
e
perched
sitting high up
f
silt
an earthy deposit laid down by a river
g
levee
natural embankments built up by the river
h
anabranch
arm of a river which separates from and later rejoins the main stream
i
diverse
varied
j
migratory
regularly moving from one place to another
k
profusion
a plentiful amount
l
yabbies
Australian freshwater crayfish
2
The water is low and there are snags.
3
The Kingfisher.
4
Barmah Lake.
5
Migratory birds from as far away as Siberia.
6
A coolamon is a dish made of bark and used by the Aborigines to carry food and sometimes babies.
7
The redgum’s flower.
What does it mean?
8
Because silt from floods has built up to form natural levee banks.
9
Because the lake is slowly silting up.
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10 He means that the fact that it is too crooked for timber or too hollow for firewood has enabled it to survive
for possibly 1000 years.
11 The ‘old man’ referred to is the river itself. It is a term of respect which acknowledges the Murray’s age and
power. The Mississippi River in the USA is referred to as ‘old man river’ and this could be where the term
originated.
UNIT 34: Stunt performer
What is being said?
1
a
visual impact
impression made by visual display
b
evaluate
assess
c
logical sequence
list of actions in an order which makes good sense
d
reflexes
automatic physical responses
e
flexibility
ability to bend the body easily in all directions
2
In order to entertain.
3
Jumping from high buildings, driving and crashing fast cars, entering flaming buildings, performing stunts
on horses, boats, trucks and water skis.
4
To check safety aspects and provide safety reports.
5
To provide advice or assist with safety.
6
By using careful timing and props.
7
There are no specific educational requirements, but employers prefer applicants who have finished Year
10.
8
Stunt performers are usually trained on the job by experienced staff.
9
Stunt performers can work for film companies, television stations, video production houses, entertainment
centres, circuses, shopping centres and showgrounds.
10 A successful stunt performer must have ability and motivation.
What does it mean?
11 Because the actors may not possess the skills required for the stunt, and the risk of injury to the actor is
minimised by using a stunt performer.
12 The greatest visual impact will make the film more exciting and entertaining.
13 To make sure they make no dangerous mistakes which could injure them.
14 Quick reflexes and flexibility, good eyesight, a sense of timing, responsible attitude towards safety. (Rest of
answer will vary)
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UNIT 35: Mobile phone etiquette
What is being said?
1
a
etiquette
the rules of correct behaviour
b
proliferation
rapid increase in numbers
c
patron
regular customer
d
succumb
give in
e
enraged
extremely angry
f
curriculum
a course of study
g
impart
tell or give
h
social pariah
social outcast
i
SMS
short message service
j
imperative
essential
k
navigational equipment
equipment that ensures that a plane is on the correct course
2
The etiquette, or rules for the polite use of mobile phones.
3
You may be distracted by the conversation you are having, or you may take your eyes off the road to read
your messages or dial a number.
4
The disapproving glares of the other patrons.
5
By using your mobile when a film is showing.
6
It could be seen as an insult to your teachers.
7
If you used your phone, you could distract people from a show they have paid a lot of money to see.
8
It would be very distracting to others and would prevent people from concentrating on the lecture.
9
Because it could interfere with electronic life-saving equipment.
10 If you use your mobile on a plane it can interfere with the navigational equipment and possibly cause an
accident.
What does it mean?
11 Because the mobile is a relatively new invention and people need to learn to use it appropriately and with
courtesy.
12 Answers will vary
Successful Comprehension
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UNIT 36: Owe, owe, owe. Oh no!
What is being said?
1
a
vulnerable
open to harm
b
inducement
an attraction that leads you on
c
refinance
provide with further capital
d
accountable
responsible for something
2
Because they offer ‘credit card goodies’ to customers.
3
The sad truth is that banks and lenders do not want you to pay off your credit card in full.
4
This is a reference to the seven dwarves’ song in Snow White.
5
i
If you pay the minimum payment on your credit card bill you will end up paying more in interest in the
long run.
ii
Bank advertisements tell us we can live well despite being in debt.
iii
Banks send unsolicited invitations to extend our credit limits.
6
You could end up paying almost a third more than you borrowed.
7
It lets us keep on spending.
8
i
People who were unable to pay their monthly balance in full.
ii
People who had recently made large purchases.
i
Our spending is our responsibility.
ii
Banks should be held accountable for trying to keep our accounts in the red.
9
What does it mean?
10 ‘Owe, owe, owe’ refers to Santa’s ‘Ho, ho, ho’. This is a reference to the description of the banks as acting
like Santa in the article.
11 (One example:) ‘Has all that loving and giving been replaced with a sinking feeling in the pit of your
stomach about how you’re going to pay for it all?’ The reader is being asked to think about the
consequences of overspending at Christmas.
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UNIT 37: Survival of the meanest
What is being said?
1
a
holocaust
overwhelming destruction of life, especially by fire
b
karma
fate, destiny
c
pious
conscientious, respectful, dutiful
d
the dark side
the side of evil
e
notoriety
to be famous (usually in a negative way)
f
Utopia
a place of ideal perfection
g
art deco
a decorative style, originally of the 1920s and 1930s
2
It implies that the games encourage gamers to be cruel in order to win.
3
Fallout 3 is set in Washington DC after a nuclear holocaust.
4
It is to be faced with a decision which may have positive or negative consequences.
5
You can increase your karma level by making good moral choices, such as not lying or stealing
6
It could help you when you meet the next desperate group of survivors.
7
You can increase your fame and ‘street cred’ with the police by breaking the law and if you get caught, you
are only sent back to the streets without any money
8
Bioshock is set in Rapture, a failed underwater city that has been torn apart by greed and civil war.
9
The inhabitants of Rapture are homicidal mutants with a passion for genetic engineering.
10 Bioshock has been praised for its dynamic game-play, intelligent characters and art deco attention to detail.
What does it mean?
11 Answers will vary. The writer has tended to describe the moral dilemmas rather than discuss them in depth.
12 Answers will vary. Some suggestions are:
Fallout 3 – gamers who like to try to put themselves in the place of others and make the right moral choices
Grand Theft Auto IV – gamers who like fast action and don’t really care to ponder the morality of their
actions
Bioshock – gamers who appreciate a well-designed game with plenty of moral decisions to make
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UNIT 38: A Ballad of John Silver
What is being said?
1
a
schooner
a sailing vessel with two or four masts, fore- and aft-rigged
b
rakish
smart, jaunty, dashing
c
lissome
lithe, supple, graceful
d
hull
the frame or body of a ship
e
Spanish Water
the north-east coast of South America and parts of the Caribbean Sea
f
yore
long ago
g
amidships
in or towards the middle of a ship
h
brace
a pair
i
fouled
made disgusting
j
scuppers
openings in the side of a ship, near deck level, which allow water to run off
k
scuttled
sunk by cutting a hole below the waterline or by opening the seacocks
l
taffrail
a rail across the stern (the back of a ship)
m
poop
part of the deck of a ship
n
fo’c’sle
(forecastle) the sailors’ quarters in the front part of a ship
o
quidding
tobacco chewing
2
The Jolly Roger flag has a skull and crossbones on a black background.
3
The ship was mounted with a long brass gun in the middle and each pirate had a pair of pistols and a
cutlass.
4
The pirates chased the merchant ships and stole their cargo.
5
The pirates killed the crew of the merchant ships: ‘the paintwork all was splatter-dashed with other people’s
brains’; ‘the dead men fouled the scuppers’, and ‘having washed the blood away, we’d little else to do’.
6
The survivors were forced to walk the plank.
7
The pirates relaxed by dancing a hornpipe, playing the fiddle or smoking a pipe.
What does it mean?
8
They were fierce and bloodthirsty with no conscience about what they did. They would kill for a cage of
chickens, they didn’t care about the blood of ‘other people’s brains’ on the paintwork, and relaxed with a
dance at the end of their dreadful deeds.
9
The writer sees them as good times – ‘in the happy days of yore’. He was proud of the ship they sailed and
the flag they flew.
10 The writer is suggesting that all the pirates are dead and at peace in some kind of pirate heaven.
11 Businesses and the government would have lost a huge amount of money as a result of piracy. It was very
bad for trade.
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UNIT 39: Situations vacant
What is being said?
1
a
beauty therapist
applies face and body treatments and advises on skin care
b
coordinate
organise people to work together
c
promoting
advertising effectively
d
gaming licence
licence to work at gambling venues requiring a record check and fingerprinting by
the Police Department
e
forklift licence
a licence which allows the holder to drive a forklift
f
motivated
a keen desire to get the job done, determination
g
catering industry
businesses involved in catering and dining, such as restaurants and cafés
h
hospitality industry
i
remuneration
payment for services
j
résumé
a summary of an applicant’s qualities, education and experiences
k
referee
someone who provides a reference for a job applicant
l
goal-oriented
keen to achieve goals
m
incentives
things that encourage a person to work harder
businesses related to tourism
2
Enthusiasm and dedication.
3
Establishing, coordinating and promoting a new beauty salon.
4
After 9 am on Monday.
5
No. The gaming licence is preferred, but not essential.
6
A forklift licence and references.
7
i
motivation
ii
good presentation
iii
a team player
iv
able to lead by example
v
knowledge of the catering and hospitality industries
8
Three.
9
Because Reflex Communications has had an increase in business
10
i
motivation
ii
goal orientation
iii
good communication
iv
willingness to work for incentives
v
availability at weekends and evenings
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What does it mean?
11 The car would be needed in order to get to work on time and to work at different venues. The phone would
be needed so that the employer could get in touch with the employee to inform him or her of a change of
shifts. (Other responses possible.)
12 To make good impression on customers.
13 The restaurant supervisor would need to set a good example by working efficiently, and at the same time
would need to work well with the rest of the staff.
14 Answers will vary
UNIT 40: The Hidden
What is being said?
1
a
writhed
twisted
b
mangroves
trees that grow in mud at the edge of water with roots above the ground
c
debris
rubbish
d
surging
moving in rolling waves
e
meagre
small, miserable
f
outcrop
piece of rock that sticks out from the surface of the ground
g
deluged
fell extremely heavily
h
diluted
made weaker
i
desolation
ruin
j
crevice
a narrow opening in the rock
k
plod
walk slowly and heavily
l
jarred
stopped suddenly and unpleasantly
2
It was torn away by the wind in the middle of the night.
3
The spirit of her mother’s people.
4
Behind a small outcrop of rock.
5
Someone named Beattie.
6
Jess felt she could lie down and never get up again.
7
To find better shelter.
8
Because she realised she might need it in the future.
9
A bigger outcrop of rocks might provide better shelter, in the form of a cave or crevice.
10 It might contain fish, which would provide her with food later on.
11 Warmth and sleep.
12 A body.
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What does it mean?
13 Because she had been woken up in the middle of the night, and she was scared.
14 The ‘dance of destruction’ is the movement of the mangroves being blown about in the storm, with
branches and debris flying around as though they were dancing wildly.
15 Because there were no mangrove trees to provide shelter.
16 Jess hated the dress because it was a ‘white man thing’.
17 The mud is moving inland in thin rivers that look like fingers, driven by the tide and water.
18 You would be in such an exhausted state that you could not think straight, and would feel dazed and
confused.
UNIT 41: RACV Ballot
What is being said?
1
a
ballot
a system of secret voting in an election, in which voters
with the names of the candidates on which to indicate their preferences
are given a paper printed
b
regardless
without consideration for
c
eligible
qualified or suitable for something
d
honorary
holding a title or office without payment or without the usual duties
e
manufacturers
people who make or produce goods
f
absentee
a person who is not present
g
invalid
not valid, does not count
h
Returning Officer
official conducting an election and announcing the results
2
To elect directors the RACV Board for 2009.
3
Two.
4
No. The RACV election is to be conducted by postal vote.
5
It can be found in the election pack or on the RACV website. (View the Candidates pdf 425KB)
6
False
7
8
a
False
b
True
c
True
d
True
e
False
They are located at the RACV Shop, 438 Little Bourke St, Melbourne, or on the ground floor of the City
Club at 501 Bourke St, Melbourne.
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9
You must vote for two candidates. If you tick less than two or more than two boxes your vote will be invalid.
You must then fold your ballot paper as directed and place it in the reply paid envelope and either post it
put it in one of the two ballot boxes in the city.
What does it mean?
10
i
To encourage as many members as possible to vote
ii
The members who receive ballot papers have a right to vote and it should not cost them anything (the
cost of postage, for example).
11 Yes. If you tick less than two boxes or more than two boxes, your vote will be invalid.
12 No, it won’t. Your vote won’t arrive in time because the ballot closes at 5 pm on 13 October.
UNIT 42: Lockie Leonard, Human Torpedo
What is being said?
1
a
homebound
on their way home
b
swerving
dodging around each other
c
Greenhouse effect
particular gases
the warming of the earth’s atmosphere, caused by an increase in
d
CFCs
chlorofluorocarbons
e
hypothetical question
a question which is speculative (wondering what might happen)
f
hypodermic
injection under the skin
g
pollies
(slang) politicians
2
The heading ‘Yer outta ya depth’ means that Lockie cannot handle being in love. It could be written: ‘You
are out of your depth’.
3
They were holding hands as though it was the last day of their lives and they had to make the most of it.
4
The writer means that a person in love cannot think clearly anymore and his brain will be of no use until the
love affair is over.
5
So that she did not break the braces on her teeth.
6
Lockie did not know anything about the Greenhouse effect.
7
Vicki was trying to talk to Lockie about the problems that the Greenhouse effect could cause for Australia.
8
Lockie was thinking about how great Vicki looked.
9
Because he didn’t take any interest in the news.
10 Because he couldn’t stop staring at Vicki.
11 Lockie really meant he was asking a hypothetical question.
12 Vicki thought marriage was a decayed and rotten institution.
13 Vicki said her parents fight like animals or politicians.
14 Because only the money kept them together.
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What does it mean?
15 Because he was in love and his brain couldn’t think about anything else.
16 Lockie might have been thinking about the future. (Other responses possible.)
17 Because her parents fought all the time.
UNIT 43: Global warming is a slow drip, drip, drip apocalypse
What is being said?
1
a
apocalypse
total destruction of the world
b
Armageddon
the final and totally destructive battle
c
millennium
a period of a thousand years
d
reverence
a feeling of great respect
e
loophole
a means of evasion or escape (eg from a law)
f
scapegoat
one who is made to bear the blame for others
2
Destruction which is happening one step at a time
3
Having her own children.
4
Some people find the idea of drinking recycled water revolting. They don’t believe it is clean.
5
She remembers her own carefree childhood where she played in the water without guilt or restriction. Her
own daughter will never do that.
6
She knows she is doing wrong and she feels guilty
7
Because it points to ‘Rain’ but little rain actually falls, thus disappointing everyone on the farm.
8
The global financial meltdown has taken a front seat in the news.
What does it mean?
9
a
The world may come to an end as a result of climate change
b
This image refers to the dust caused by the drought, as well as the writer’s attempt to see some hope (
as though she is planting new seeds of hope)
c
This is a reference to the old saying ‘every cloud has a silver lining’, which suggests that it is better to
be optimistic than pessimistic. The ‘dark, dry clouds’ are real as well as a symbol of misery.
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UNIT 44: What’s in the paper?
What is being said?
1
a
glossary
a list of terms and their meanings
b
takeover
gain control of
c
bankruptcy
inability to pay debts
d
job vacancy
a position not filled
e
offset
make up for something
f
cryptic crossword
a crossword with solutions hidden in trick clues
g
caption
the words which briefly describe a photograph or diagram
2
To help pay for the production of the paper.
3
One of: a business takeover or the bankruptcy of a business.
4
Birth, death and marriage notices, selling houses or cars and advertisements for job vacancies.
5
To provide entertainment and to provide relief from the grim news.
6
The editor.
7
Near the start of the paper.
8
Local, national and world.
9
To makes fun of some aspect of current politics.
10 Details of which shares have gained or lost value.
11 A TV review gives the opinion of the writer, while the TV guide just tells the reader what is on TV.
What does it mean?
12 The product must be of interest to the readers of a particular paper or the advertising money will be wasted
on the wrong audience.
13 An editorial is the opinion of the editor of the paper on a current news issue, while a letter to the editor is
written by a member of the public who wants to comment on a current news issue.
UNIT 45: Dog days a delight
What is being said?
1
a
boundless
unlimited
b
joie de vivre
a feeling of healthy and exuberant enjoyment of life (from the French)
c
weepie
a film or novel which makes you cry
d
sentimental
showing or arousing tenderness or romantic feelings or foolish emotion
e
reggae
a West Indian style of music with a strong beat
f
redemption
the act of delivering or saving someone from sin or evil
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g
berated
scolded or criticised
h
ample
quite enough
2
He was named after reggae superstar Bob Marley.
3
Thirteen
4
Any three of:
He chews furniture, pillows and flooring and anything else left around.
He drinks out of the toilet.
He eats a gold necklace.
He can’t be left alone.
He won’t walk properly on a lead.
5
John Grogan’s articles for the Sun-Sentinel were later republished in an autobiography and the film was
based on this book.
6
Kathleen Turner.
7
David Frenkel.
8
They get him as a kind of practice baby before they commit to having children.
9
Alliteration.
What does it mean?
10 The film contains some sexual content as well as some painfully emotional scenes which may be
unsuitable for young children.
11 The expression ‘pause for thought’ normally refers to something which makes you stop to think and
reconsider. In this article, ‘pause’ is spelt ‘paws’. It is the dog’s life and relationship with the Grogan family
which causes us to stop, think and reconsider what is important in life.
12 It is similar to the commands you give to a puppy when you are training it (and which are so unsuccessful
in Marley’s case).
UNIT 46: Three dead in first seven hours of the year
What is being said?
1
a
road trauma
injuries caused in road accidents
b
attributable
due to, as a consequence of
c
triumphalism
boasting about winning
d
enforcement
making sure the law is carried out
e
urban area
in a city setting
2
The fact that Victoria’s road toll has had its worst start to the year in a decade.
3
He was a bare-chested motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet.
4
2008.
5
The end-of-year drop coincided with increased police activity
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6
Half the fatalities in Victoria occurred within these areas
7
Nearly half the pedestrians killed were over the age of 65.
8
Bruce Corben is senior research fellow at Monash University’s Accident Research Centre. He suggests
lowering speed limits
9
Brian Negus is the RACV public policy manager. He advocates educational and psychological-based
testing.
10 The Government is aiming for a 30% reduction by 2017.
What does it mean?
11 Answers will vary
12 The purpose of this article is to alert readers to the horror start to the road toll and to suggest reasons for it.
The article is also supporting the campaign to reduce the road toll even further.
What do I think about it?
13 Answers will vary
UNIT 47: Stone Age Bodies
What is being said?
1
a
unprocessed
not treated or prepared in any way
b
chronic
continuing or firmly established
c
anthropology
the study of human beings and the customs and characteristics of human society
d
inflammatory
to produce heat, redness or swelling
e
auto-immune diseases
f
gastrointestinal
relating to the stomach and intestines
g
ailments
minor illnesses
h
exacerbated
intensifies or made worse
i
unrefined
unprocessed
diseases in which the body attacks its own immune system
2
Unprocessed, natural foods.
3
Nutrition and anthropology.
4
It means that we eat less protein, which can protect our hearts and benefit cholesterol levels.
5
We are eating more Omega-6 fatty acids and less Omega-3.
6
Omega-6 fatty acids are known to increase the risk of heart, inflammatory and auto-immune diseases.
7
There has been a 400% increase in our salt intake.
8
It has reversed the delicate sodium/potassium balance, affecting our cells and body fluids, possibly leading
to stroke, gastrointestinal tract cancers and other ailments.
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What does it mean?
9
The research identified seven major nutritional differences between our modern Western diet and that of
Stone Age people and claims that these differences are responsible for the dramatic rise in certain
diseases.
10 The foods we eat have a higher glycaemic index. We eat more saturated fatty acids and more
carbohydrate than protein. Our food is more refined and contains fewer vitamins. We also eat more
unhealthy acids, consume far too much salt and less fibre.
11 They would look at the evolution of food. For example, grain crops were not developed until around 10,000
years ago, and before this our ancestors only ate lean meats and plants.
UNIT 48: Flour Babies
What is being said?
1
a
temple
the part of the head between the forehead and the ear
b
valiantly
bravely
c
unseasonal Santa Santa appearing out of season, that is, not at Christmas
d
grimly
without cheerfulness, sternly
e
fleeing
running away
f
prescience
knowing something before it happens
g
measly
very small
h
mayfly
an insect that lives for only a short time in spring
2
Because he didn’t have a reason to be out of class.
3
Because he was fully booked until then with other detentions.
4
Because that was where her headaches usually started.
5
Because it was easier to do the detention.
6
Because he was carrying a bag like Santa’s bag of presents, but it was not Christmas time.
7
She started to say something to Simon but when she saw the trail of flour she did not finish and hurried to
the staffroom to take her aspirins.
8
Simon seemed to be able to see into the future (have second sight) and he felt this is what would happen.
9
Simon thought a teacher needed grip.
10 Because it goes on twenty-four hours a day for nearly twenty years.
What does it mean?
11 Simon joked that she would have to book him up, as though he was doing her a favour.
12 Miss Arnott found it difficult to cope and rushed off to the staffroom to escape and have an aspirin.
13 Simon thought his mother could be out of gaol in less time than it would take to bring up a child.
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UNIT 49: Horoscope
What is being said?
1
a
horoscope
an astrologer’s forecast of future events
b
smitten
affected strongly
c
diversions
recreations, pastimes
d
expenditure
something which is expended (used up), such as time or money
e
bonbon
a trifle, something unimportant
f
bothersome
annoying
g
out of the blue
out of nowhere
h
rigid
unbending, harsh, inflexible
2
Virgos should expect the unexpected at work today.
3
Librans will be attracted to unusual people today.
4
Sagittarians should expect a quick or sudden opportunity to travel or study.
5
May 22 to June 21.
6
A crab.
7
Scorpio.
8
Capricorns might receive a surprise gift, inheritance or benefit.
9
A set of scales.
10 Pisces are advised to free their minds of rigid expectations and concepts and to be open to new ways of
doing things.
What does it mean?
11 Most of the entries refer to the idea of a surprise event or happening of some sort.
12 It means that all relationships have their ups and downs.
13 It means people shouldn’t risk what they have for something or someone which on the surface appears
delightful but which doesn’t have any real value.
14
a
This advice suggests that Aquarians are hot-headed and impulsive.
b
This suggests that a Pisces person may tend to be a bit of a stick-in-the-mud.
c
This suggests that Virgos tend to dislike changes to routine or plans.
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UNIT 50: Great Expectations
What is being said?
1
a
explicit
definite, obvious
b
tombstone
a memorial stone set up over a grave
c
derived
obtained
d
inscription
writing on a tombstone
e
lozenges
diamond shapes
f
sacred
holy, a place of spiritual significance
g
indebted
owing
h
marsh
an area of very wet ground
i
raw
cold and damp weather
j
bleak
bare and cold
k
nettles
prickly plants
l
dykes
ditches for draining water from the land
m
lair
a place where a wild animal lives (in this case, the sea)
2
Because when he was small, he could not pronounce Philip Pirrip, his real name.
3
Because he saw it on a tombstone and also because his sister told him.
4
From their tombstones.
5
Because of the shape of the letters on his tombstone.
6
Because of the character and appearance of the inscription on her tombstone.
7
Five.
8
Because of the shape of their little graves.
9
The weather was raw, meaning that it was cold and damp.
10 The churchyard was a bleak place, overgrown with nettles.
11 Alexander, Bartholomew, Abraham, Tobias and Roger.
12 The marshes were the dark flat wilderness, crossed with channels and gates, with scattered cattle feeding
there.
13 As a lair from which the wind comes rushing.
14 Pip was starting to cry, and he was shivering.
What does it mean?
15 The length of the sentences and the unfamiliar words might alert the reader to the fact that this book was
first published in 1860. (Other responses are possible.)
16 Pip seems to be nervous, sensitive and sad. (Other responses are possible.)
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